Mauritian Apprentice’s Memorable Day

Riding a career first winner on his mother’s birthday means that Wednesday 13 September 2023 will forever be etched in the memory of 18 year old Mauritius-born apprentice, Nirvan Nastili.

Showing maturity and confidence that belied his youth, Nirvan steered the Flower Alley gelding Iron Bark to an eighth victory for trainer Gareth van Zyl at Hollywoodbets Greyville on a day that had his family, and legion of supporters on the Indian Ocean Island, glued to their television sets.

From his childhood days hanging over the wall and watching the action around the Champ de Mars in Port Louis, while following the fortunes of the island’s now Hong Kong-based ‘Mauritian Magician’ Karis Teetan, Nirvan celebrated the first chapter of a fairytale lifelong ambition and dream scripted at the Durban City track last Wednesday in what was a low-key midweek affair.

“I have tried a few 4kg claimers and this was impressive. Nirvan listened to instructions and kept Iron Bark beautifully balanced. Congratulations to him, and it’s extra special in view of the fact that it’s his Mum’s birthday,” added a delighted trainer Gareth van Zyl.

In his heavily accented English, Nirvan seemed almost bewildered that the Sporting Post had contacted him.

“I think it’s natural that this win is very important to me! I am so happy that I could give Mum this moment as a gift. My father and brother are so proud, and my friends have been very supportive through my career thus far. My parents taught me the values of life and clothed, educated and fed me. They made the dream a reality for me. This is my way of showing my appreciation and repaying them for the love and commitment. I hope I can give them many more moments to be proud,” the happy apprentice told the Sporting Post.

Growing up 5km north east of the capital Port Louis in the small village of Terre Rouge in the Pamplemousses District, Nirvan was introduced to racing from a young age – his family have their roots in the horseracing crazy island as owners.

“I wanted to become a jockey because I have always loved horses. My father was not allowed to become a jockey because my grandparents were concerned that the sport was too dangerous,” he explains to the Sporting Post.

After completing courses in Mauritius and working for a year as a Groom in Verdun, the London College graduate has been based at the internationally respected SA Jockey Academy for a year and half, and says that he has been enjoying the journey thus far.

“There are so many great jockeys to have been trained at this institution – from long before I was born. It’s an honour and a privilege to be here and I have made many good friends. And even though I do miss my village from time to time, South Africa is a beautiful hospitable country and it has become my second home.”

A clearly focused Nirvan has his future vision set on big goals.

“I would like to ride many winners in the future so that I can travel as an apprentice. I will be working hard for the championship and I dream of riding in Hong Kong one day. I’d like to do my best like Karis Teetan, Keagan de Melo and Serino Moodley. Mauritian jockey Rai Joorawon is also another rider I look up to. These top sportsmen make me love racing even more.”

Nastili ended our chat by thanking Gareth van Zyl and the owners of Iron Bark, Mr and Mrs Palmer, for the opportunity.

As a parting shot, he says that he is hoping to secure a sponsor soon. Hint, hint!